| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Right Bank > Pomerol |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
Certan de May is situated directly opposite Vieux Château Certan in a prime position on the plateau of Pomerol. In the past there are have been some great vintages produced here, but some less successful ones too. Although independently family owned, there is increased influence from the Moueix family who own several neighbouring prioperties and their consultant winemaker Jean-Claude Berrouet now lends a hand here. Quality and consistency are subsequently on the rise.
View all vintages of this wine | View all wines by Château Certan de May
Offering up aromas of sweet berries and plums mingled with notions of aniseed, licorice and mint, the 2020 Certan de May is medium to full-bodied, broad and layered, with a rich and enveloping core of ripe, somewhat baked fruit. This is a solid effort, but it can't quite match the 2019. 2023 - 2040
I meted out criticism towards the 2020 Certan-de-May from my sample bottle sent to the UK. To be honest, I was hoping I would eat my words when re-tasting soon after in Libourne. This bottle confirms that this is a Pomerol that could do better, especially in benevolent vintages, but it is an improvement. It just lacks presence on the nose, maybe a little less herbaceous but truth is, the aromatics are stuck in second gear. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, fresh with fine acidity. It is a mid-weight Pomerol, balanced, a little conservative with a peppery finish. Not bad, but having encountered many a lovely Certan-de-May’s, I expect more.
This very refined with polished, chewy tannins and black olives. Medium-to full-bodied, the tannins are chiseled and energetic. 65% merlot*, 25% cabernet franc and 10% cabernet sauvignon.
* corrected from his note
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2020 Certan de May gives up compelling notes of ripe, juicy black plums, fresh blackberries and black cherry compote, plus suggestions of lavender, wild sage and clove oil. The medium to full-bodied palate is softly textured with bags of freshness framing the generous black fruits, finishing on a savory note. 2024 - 2038
This is pretty sombre, with a more Left Bank feel than many, really get the savoury and pared back dark berry feel of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend, ensuring that the pressure from the tannins is to the fore. As it relaxes in the glass, a grilled coffee bean and liquorice note comes out. This is a lovely and powerful wine that takes its foot off the pedal at the right moment. Has personality and sets itself apart. Really enjoyable, in the Gazin-style in that this is subtly powerful rather than over-exuberant. New cellars at Certan de May, harvest of Merlot September 11 to 16, and the two Cabernets September 28 and 29.
Drinking Window 2026 - 2042
Bright red fruit and savoury spices in equal measure on a cool yet ripe nose. The palate is plummy and compact but wonderfully rounded. A wine that focuses on finesse rather than power, the juicy cherry fruit has a savoury edge that is bolstered by hints of toast from the oak. Dried herbs, hedgerow and ripe plum on the finish.
65% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Cask sample.
Deep and reserved at present but a dark-fruit nuance and the aromatic complexity is there. Vibrant palate, fine and persistent, the tannins building in a linear way. Lovely balance and freshness. Real wine with ageing potential. Could be the best yet. (JL)
Drink 2027 – 2045
